Canadian Government News, In a joint initiative between PWGSC and the Department of National Defence, the Canadian Forces' Halifax Class frigates will be retrofitted with new operation rooms, radar suites and various communications, control and warfare systems.
The upgrades are part of a C$3.1 billion modernization project that is set to begin in 2010. PWGSC has been involved since 2005 in the planning, preparation and co-ordination of the procurement process of the contracts involved.
The Department conducted several public meetings with potential bidders to provide information about contract requirements. A fairness observer was also appointed to watch over the hiring process and consult the industrial sector to develop thorough Statements of Interest and Qualifications for each contract. All information from the consultations was posted on-line, along with frequently asked questions and answers.
“Our policies are developed to ensure all suppliers get an opportunity to bid,” said Terry Williston, Director General of PWGSC's Land, Aerospace and Marine Systems and Major Projects Sector.
“All Canadian suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises as well as Aboriginal providers, have a chance for government procurement.”
Mr. Williston explained that working groups with both government and industry representatives had been conducted over 18 months for both the combat system integration and ship refit portions of the project.
“The aim was not only to solicit industry's input, but also to strengthen the working relations between the project management office and the Canadian marine and defence industries.”
There are five major contract elements that have been, or will be, awarded to qualified Canadian suppliers and service providers:
– Two Multi-ship Refit Contracts, worth a total of $760 million, will be awarded in 2008. The ships will be refitted between January 2010 and June 2017.
– Combat Systems Integrator Contract, worth $1.1 billion. A Request for Proposal will be issued to interested companies in early 2008, and a contract is planned for Fall 2008.
– Command & Control System In-Service Support Contract, worth $300 million. Planned for Fall 2008.
– Platform System Design Agent Contract, worth $150 million, awarded to Fleetway, Inc. in October 2006.
The frigates have been in service for the past 16 years and were initially designed for warfare missions in open ocean.
The Halifax Class modernization project will bring enhanced capability to the ships, enabling them to effectively function in a wider range of situations and environments.
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